The following Frequently Asked Questions are divided into three sections: Supported Devices, Getting Assistance, and Service Areas & Access Points. Terms like "802.11b" and "LEAP" are explained on the Wireless Networking Basics page.

Q: I purchased a wireless-ready laptop. Will it work on the ITS/TNS network?

A: Only if the 802.11b card supports the Cisco LEAP technology. Some computer vendors (like Apple) have licensed this technology. Some vendors only have certain models that are LEAP compatible. Laptops that are Intel Centrino certified are LEAP compatible. See the Access Requirements page for more details.

Q: Which personal data assistants (PDAs) are compatible with the ITS wireless service?

A: Any PDA running the Windows CE operating system that can accept a Cisco LEAP-compatible wireless card will work. Note, Bluetooth is a totally different wireless environment from 802.11b (WiFi).

Q: Why are only certain 802.11b (WiFi) cards supported?

A: Security, authentication, and supportability were important design considerations when we investigated providing wireless service. We selected the emerging 802.1x standard as an important part of meeting these concerns. There are variations in the implementation of this standard by different vendors. We selected Cisco's LEAP technology as the best implementation at the time. We continue to test new cards as these standards and implementations evolve.

We expect that a wider variety of cards will be compatible with the ITS wireless network in the future, as wireless standards are finalized and vendor implementations converge for greater interoperability. However, some cards, primarily those developed for the home consumer market, may never be supported.

If you have a card that isn’t currently compatible with our LEAP implementation, you may try a software product from Meeting House called Aegis client. ITS doesn’t support this software, but we have verified that it does work with some cards on the ITS wireless network.

Q: Are you going to support 802.11a, 11g, or other wireless standards?

A: ITS is investigating and testing other wireless protocols and will likely implement and support additional protocols in the future. The selection of protocols and the timing for implementation will be determined as the standards, products, and market forces develop.

Q: My wireless-ready laptop doesn't seem to work in an ITS wireless area. What should I do?

A: There are several possible causes for this problem. First you should make sure that your computer and wireless card are compatible with and configured properly for the ITS service. You should also make sure that the wireless service is available in the area you are testing.

If you are not able to resolve the problem, contact the ITS Help Desk. You can take your laptop to the Help Desk in the lower level of Lindquist Center and test accessing the ITS wireless service right there.

Q: Where should I go to test my wireless laptop?

A: The best place to go is the ITS Help Desk in south Lindquist Center during their normal business hours. They can help verify your wireless configuration.

Q: Sometimes my wireless connection drops. What's the problem?

A: There are many possible causes for a dropped connection. Because of the many sources of interference, wireless is not always as reliable as wired network service. If you have problems, it is best to gather as much information (such as location, time, ….) as possible and contact the ITS Help Desk, which can provide you with further guidance.

Note, wireless service is susceptible to interference from many types of devices which use the same transmission band, including microphones, telephones, cell phones, microwaves, and X10 wireless devices like cameras. In some cases it may be extremely difficult to determine why a specific interference event occurred.

Q: Will you help me configure my personal or departmental access point?

A: It would take more resources than we have available to become familiar with the plethora of available access points. Also we prefer that you request ITS networking service as opposed to extending the campus network through wireless coverage. When we do provide service in your area, you departmental access points will have to be removed from service, anyway. If you have wireless needs, please contact us before you purchase or install access points. We are happy to discuss your wireless needs.

Q: Where are ITS wireless service areas?

A: Go to the locations page of this site. The maps at this location will be updated as new service areas are added.

Q: Is there a difference among the wireless networking systems supported by ITS/TNS, the College of Business, and the College of Engineering?

A: Yes, a wireless laptop which works with the ITS/TNS network will work with the College of Business network and the College of Engineering network, but will require a different configuration profile. Conversely, a wireless laptop that works with the College of Business or College of Engineering network may or may not work with the ITS/TNS network (the additional LEAP requirement). For more information, visit the College of Engineering wireless website or call the Engineering College Help Desk at 335-5055. And visit the College of Business wireless website or call the Stead Technology Services Group at 335-0876.

Q: How can I get ITS wireless service in my area?

A: Service plans may be in process, so first talk with the information technology support people in your college, department, or area. You can also request service by sending email to its-wireless@uiowa.edu. New service locations are added based on several factors, including impact on instruction, number of potential wireless users in an area, and the degree of difficulty in providing wired service in the area.

Q: How much does the service cost?

We are still exploring ways to cover the expenses associated with installing and supporting wireless access points. For now, there are no direct charges. We may request subsidies from groups around campus to help support their interest in wireless access. We may ask departments to share installation expenses in areas where we are not able to justify installing service.

Q: Can I continue to use my personal or departmental access point if ITS installs wireless service in my area?

A: Due to support issues (such as interactions between access points), all personal and departmental access points must be de-commissioned in areas where ITS installs wireless service. We try to notify everyone in a new coverage area before the service is turned on, so that we can help with a smooth transition to the ITS service.